Get Guardian on Google***Demands Probe of Deadly Asaba Violence
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has raised the alarm over what it considers a dangerous pattern of political violence in the South-South, warning that the region could slide into renewed hostility if political leaders fail to rein in their supporters.
The warning followed violent incidents in Warri, Calabar and Asaba, with the latest reported attack in Asaba on November 7 claiming a life.
PANDEF said the incidents were disturbing signs that political competition was taking a dangerous turn in a region whose stability is critical to peace and development in the Niger Delta.
In a statement issued on Monday, the forum’s National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, condemned the attacks and called for immediate investigations into the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The forum specifically identified the Warri/Effurun incident of September 18, the violence in Calabar on November 4 and the deadly incident in Asaba on November 7.
Beyond condemning the attacks, PANDEF placed responsibility on political leaders to control the conduct of their followers, warning that inflammatory rhetoric, provocation and political intimidation could deepen tensions.
It argued that the South-South’s longstanding tradition of tolerance and peaceful coexistence must not be sacrificed for the ambitions of individual politicians.
The organisation also expressed concern over the growing vulnerability of young people to political manipulation.
It urged Niger Delta youths to reject attempts by political actors to recruit them as agents of violence, insisting that their future should not be traded for the selfish interests of politicians.
PANDEF called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to move beyond routine condemnations and conduct thorough investigations into the incidents.
It demanded the identification and arrest of those directly involved, as well as the alleged masterminds behind the violence.
The forum also asked political parties to reconsider how they organise rallies and other mass gatherings, recommending properly secured venues and adequate security arrangements, particularly during movements involving large crowds.
It said such measures would reduce the risk of confrontations and protect supporters, residents and other members of the public.
PANDEF further appealed to political parties, government officials and community stakeholders to place regional peace above partisan loyalty.
The forum maintained that political disagreements must never become a justification for bloodshed, intimidation or the destruction of property.
Igali warned that the South-South must remain a region of peace, mutual respect and responsible political engagement throughout the election season and beyond.
